Cairo, Egypt – In a significant cultural triumph, Egypt has successfully reclaimed a priceless artifact: a 3,400-year-old statue depicting King Ramses II. The ancient relic, which was stolen over three decades ago, has now found its way back to its homeland, the Egyptian Ministry of Antiquities announced on Sunday.

The Journey Home

Originally pilfered from the temple of Ramses II in the historic city of Abydos, Southern Egypt, the statue's theft dates back to the late 1980s or early 1990s. Its absence was noted until it resurfaced in 2013 at a London exhibition. From there, the statue passed through multiple countries before ending up in Switzerland. The Egyptian government, in collaboration with Swiss authorities, was able to establish and prove its rightful ownership, leading to the artifact’s repatriation.

Restoration and Display

Currently housed in the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, the statue is not yet available for public viewing. "The artifact will undergo a thorough restoration process to ensure its preservation for future generations," stated the Ministry. Shaaban Abdel Gawad, who leads Egypt's antiquities repatriation department, emphasized the historical significance of the statue, noting that "This head is part of a group of statues that portray King Ramses II seated alongside various Egyptian deities."

A Symbol of Egypt’s Rich Heritage

King Ramses II, also known as Ramses the Great, is one of Egypt’s most celebrated pharaohs, ruling from 1279 to 1213 B.C. His era is marked by vast building programs and numerous military expeditions, cementing his reputation as one of ancient Egypt’s most powerful rulers.

The return of the King Ramses II statue not only marks a win for Egypt's cultural heritage but also highlights the ongoing global efforts against the illicit trafficking of antiquities. Egypt continues to advocate for the return of stolen artifacts and remains committed to preserving its rich historical legacy.

The Egyptian Museum plans to feature the restored statue in a special exhibit dedicated to Ramses II, aiming to provide visitors with a deeper understanding of his reign and Egypt's formidable history in antiquity